Obituary
Bernard C. “Bernie” Altmann, age 91, passed away on September 5, 2025, at Hampton Manor Memory Care in Cape Coral, Florida. He was born on August 20, 1934, in Easton, PA, to the late John C. and Anna M. (Tate) Altmann. Bernie grew up in Easton alongside his siblings, Theresa (Rossetti) and Florian “Bud”, who preceded him in death.
Bernie graduated in 1952 from Easton Catholic High School. On September 11,1954, he married the love of his life, Arlene (McNulty) Altmann. They shared 66 wonderful years together before her passing in February 2021.
Bernie began his career as a machinist, working at Dixie Cup and Hires Industries before moving into the optical business. In 1962, he co-owned Easton Optical Company at 9 N. 2nd St in Easton with his father-in-law, Frank C. McNulty. Eventually, he became the sole owner of the business and expanded it to three locations before retiring from the optical business in 1992. Additionally, Bernie owned multiple properties in the Easton area.
A lifelong golfer, Bernie mastered the game and, along with his wife Arlene, played at golf courses in many different states and countries. He was a member, first at Harkers Hollow Golf Club in Phillipsburg, NJ, then later at Northampton Country Club in Easton, PA and lastly at Gateway Golf and Country Club in Fort Myers, FL. He was especially proud of his two holes-in-one.
In 1988, Bernie and Arlene began spending time in Southwest Florida and eventually moved full-time in 2000 to Gateway in Fort Myers, FL. In his later years, Bernie enjoyed wood-working with his friend, Ken Oaks, handcrafting personalized boxes for every member of his family, in addition to many other projects.
Bernie is survived by his four children: Jeanette, wife of Steve Gibbs; Richard, husband of Bonnie; Bernard II, husband of Kathy; and Doreen McNulty. He was the proud grandfather of five grandchildren: Patrick Altmann, Kimberly Altmann, Caitlin (Gibbs) Bambrick, Lauren (Gibbs) Brueck, and Tyler Altmann, along with their spouses, Laura Altmann, Tim Bambrick and Aaron Brueck. Bernie also leaves behind nine great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
A funeral Mass will be held on Friday September 19, 2025 at 2 pm at St John XXIII Catholic Church, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers, FL 33912. Visitation will be held at the church, beginning at 1:30 pm. Bernie loved the color blue. Please wear blue in his honor. Interment of ashes will follow at St John Memorial Garden.
Bernie spent fourteen years volunteering at St John XXIII Thrift Store. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St John XXIII Thrift Store, 15200 S Tamiami Trail, Ft Myers, FL 33908. The family would like to thank the staff at Hampton Manor Memory Care in Cape Coral for their wonderful care and compassion over the past two years.
Bernie’s life was marked by love, dedication and generosity. He cherished his family, his faith, and his friends, leaving a legacy of kindness, joy and memorable moments that will be treasured by all who knew him. Always the gentleman, Bernie will be remembered as a good man who lived a good life.
Love and misses!
A treasured moment only a few years ago. Rest in peace, Bernie. You are missed so deeply.